Tag: The Yellowjackets

Mixed Music Bag – Week 51

Posted in TunageTagged , , , , , , , 2 Comments

ARTICLE – TUNAGE – MINI BIO – MMB

The Yellowjackets 

In several previous posts, you’ve heard me yammer on about my musical journey and how different things in my life helped establish my evolving musical tastes. During the 1980s, I became a fan of jazz and the sub-genre of jazz fusion. This was spurred by my introduction to Al Dimeola, legendary guitarist of the Jazz Fusion trio Romantic Warrior. As I drove deeper into jazz fusion, I discovered “The Yellowjackets.” 

The Yellowjackets are a highly influential American jazz fusion band formed in 1977 in Los Angeles. Assembled initially as a backup band for guitarist Robben Ford, they evolved into one of jazz’s most respected groups. Ford left the band to pursue a different musical direction after recording their first album. The track Rush Hour on their 1981 self-titled release is often considered Robben Ford’s best work. 

Original Lineup: 

  • Robben Ford (Guitar)
  • Russell Ferrante (Keyboards)
  • Jimmy Haslip (Bass)
  • Ricky Lawson (Drums)

After Ford’s departure, the band continued as a trio. Despite Ford’s departure, the band maintained the sound band established with Ford. Mirage a Trois (1983) marked the transition of the band’s sound into a direction. They added saxophonist Marc Russo to add in the transition. Their album Shades (1986) cemented their sound, unique to their previous sound. 

Critical Acclaim

  • Shades (1986) reached No. 4 on the Billboard jazz album chart, featuring the Grammy-winning single “And You Know That”
  • Greenhouse (1991) reached No. 1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Album chart.
  • Yellowjackets (1981) – Their debut album reached No. 16 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart and made serious waves in jazz radio

Grammy Recognition

Their most acclaimed albums include:

  • Politics (1988) – Won Grammy for Jazz Fusion Performance
  • Jackets XL (2020) – Nominated for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album
  • Parallel Motion (2022) – Their latest Grammy-nominated album

Current Lineup

The band currently consists of:

  • Russell Ferrante (Piano & Synthesizers) – founding member
  • Bob Mintzer (Woodwinds & EWI)
  • Will Kennedy (Drums)
  • Dane Alderson (Bass)

Musical Legacy

Throughout their 43-year history, the Yellowjackets have recorded 25 albums and received 17 Grammy nominations, winning two. Modern rhythms, strong melodies, and innovative jazz fusion compositions characterize their music.